Barnwell State Park Guide

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Introduction

Barnwell State Park, located just outside the town of Blackville, South Carolina, is a hidden gem for angling enthusiasts. This spacious state park offers not one, but three fishing holes well-stocked with crappie, catfish, and bream. If you're motoring around South Carolina's metropolitan Midlands region, park the RV at Barnwell State Park for a quiet stopover complete with all the creature comforts you could possibly need.

Whether you're looking to wet a line, stroll down a nature trail, or treat the family to a picnic lunch, Barnwell State Park is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Fishing is obviously a fan favorite here, so much so that the park even offers fishing rod and boat rentals for amateur anglers who don't have their own gear. The park's picnic facilities are well-equipped for family gatherings and even reunions. Visitors looking to host a truly special event can check out the community building, a popular venue for weddings and corporate events. The kids in your camping crew will love the playground, volleyball court, and horseshoe pit.

If you're planning to spend time down by the water at Barnwell State Park, though, you'll want to bring some insect repellent along. Where there is water in South Carolina, there are bound to be mosquitoes. You'll also want to keep an eye out for the occasional alligator, too! Don't fret if you forgot to pack any necessities, though. Barnwell State Park is a short drive away from the town of Blackville, where you'll find a grocery store, a gas station, and a few local restaurants serving up signature Southern comfort food.

Transportation in Barnwell State Park

Driving

Most of the park's internal roads are paved, although some are gravel. Note that the park is located in a densely wooded area. Take care when traveling through the park after a storm, as broken tree limbs and other hazards may be a problem. The park is conveniently located just off SC Highway 3, which leads straight into the town of Blackville.

Parking

All of the parking areas at Barnwell State Park are gravel. Day-use visitors will find a lot by the park office. No parking fees or passes apply at Barnwell State Park, so feel free to park the RV and set off for an outdoor adventure!

Public Transport

Campgrounds and parking in Barnwell State Park

Campsites in Barnwell State Park

Reservations camping

Barnwell State Park Campground

Tent and RV campers at Barnwell State Park can choose from 25 campsites, eight of which offer full hookups with electricity, water, and sewer. The remaining sites feature water and electrical hookups. Sites are comprised of packed gravel and offer easy access to restrooms and hot showers. Four sites can accommodate RVs up to 36 feet long, while the remaining sites have a maximum length of 28 feet. A primitive group site equipped with picnic tables and fire rings can also accommodate up to 50 guests.

Campers must reserve their site at least one day in advance; however, those who are unable to make a reservation within this time frame can reserve a site by contacting the park directly.

First-come first-served

Alternate camping

Cabins

Prefer to camp in comfort? Rent one of the park's five furnished cabins! These come with all the bells and whistles, including satellite TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a range of appliances, and even linens. The cabin area is located just a few hundred yards from two of the park's ponds, so early morning anglers won't have to travel far to fish. Please note that pets are not allowed in the cabins or even in the cabin area, but are welcome to accompany RV campers as long as they are leashed and well-behaved.

Seasonal activities in Barnwell State Park

In-Season

Picnicking

There's only one word to describe a South Carolina summer: scorching! Park visitors can enjoy a break from the humidity with a dip in the swimming area followed by a picnic lunch in a shaded shelter. Barnwell State Park has four picnic shelters which can be reserved in advance; otherwise, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Boating

Boating is available at Barnwell State Park, with a few caveats. Motorized boating is allowed, but gas-powered watercraft is prohibited. There's also no boat launch at Barnwell State Park, so boaters will need to carry their craft with them from the parking lot. RV guests without a private vessel can rent a non-motorized boat from the park office. Those who have questions regarding the park's boating policies are encouraged to contact the park office.

Fishing

Barnwell State Park is considered one of the state's best fishing destinations -- and considering the sheer number of fishing holes in South Carolina, that's saying something! Cast a line into one of the park's three freshwater ponds in search of a catfish dinner. Bass, bluegill, bream, and crappie are also on the menu. Don't forget to pick up a South Carolina fishing license first!

Off-Season

Geocaching

This scavenger hunt is gaining popularity with avid adventurers all over the country. A few geocaches are hidden throughout Barnwell State Park, inviting visiting sleuths to hunt them all down! Though most phone networks should receive decent coverage here, Wi-Fi is also available at the park, making it easy to download the map and clues on your smartphone before setting out.

Wildlife Watching and Birdwatching

Don't forget to pack those binoculars in the camper. This biodiverse area is a natural haven for a wide variety of species, from birds and bees and everything in between. Birdwatching is a popular activity at Barnwell State Park, with osprey and ducks being the most common sights. Those looking to spot something a little more exotic will want to keep their eyes peeled for wild turkey, deer, and even alligators!

Hiking

Most folks would consider hiking a summer activity, but native South Carolinians know that tackling a difficult trail in the summer can be a death sentence. Those visiting the park in the cooler months of spring and fall can enjoy a serene stroll along the park's one-and-a-half-mile trail without sweating buckets. Along the way, you can read informational plaques to learn more about the park's flora.